Lymphocyte subset distribution in Graves' ophthalmopathy patients: increased levels of B cells

Abstract

Lymphocyte membrane markers were studied in 54 Graves' ophthalmopathy patients (22 hyperthyroid, 22 euthyroid, 10 hypothyroid) and 13 healthy controls. The results show that in these patients there is a significant increase in B cells but no overall abnormalities in the levels of peripheral T cells, helper T cells or suppressor T cells. When the patients are subdivided according to ocular symptoms or thyroid function, some subgroups do, however, show abnormal T cell distribution. Patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism have fewer peripheral T cells and helper T cells than normal controls, but normal levels of B cells. Patients with chemosis only have significantly more suppressor cells and slightly less helper cells and therefore an abnormal helper to suppressor cell ratio when compared to healthy controls. Patients presenting with chemosis, proptosis and extra-ocular muscle involvement have significantly fewer peripheral T cells than healthy controls. Normal levels of B cells are found in patients with symptoms in four or more of the NOSPECS classes 2 to 6.

Key Words:

• Graves' ophthalmopathy
• T-lymphocyte
• B-lymphocyte